Where on the Moon should the first Moonbase be?

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SUMMARY

The optimal location for the first Moonbase is at the rim of the Shackleton Crater near the Lunar south pole, as proposed by Jeff Bezos of Blue Origin. This site offers access to water ice in the shadows and nearly perpetual sunlight for solar energy. Alternative locations include lava tubes, such as Marius Hills, which provide natural radiation shielding. The discussion emphasizes the importance of proximity to water sources and the need for automated construction methods prior to human arrival.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of lunar geography and features, specifically Shackleton Crater and Marius Hills.
  • Knowledge of lunar resource utilization, particularly water ice extraction.
  • Familiarity with radiation shielding techniques for extraterrestrial habitats.
  • Awareness of automated construction technologies for space missions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research lunar ice mining techniques and technologies.
  • Learn about the structural integrity and safety of lava tubes for habitation.
  • Investigate automated construction methods for extraterrestrial bases.
  • Explore the implications of meteoroid impacts on lunar habitats and shielding solutions.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, lunar colonization researchers, and space mission planners interested in sustainable human habitation on the Moon.

  • #31
Lunar dust is indeed a problem - does anyone know how high it levitates? Would the top of a 10 or 20 metre pole be sufficient to keep a PV panel clean? Quite a flimsy structure would suffice with no wind to consider.
 
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  • #32
skystare said:
Lunar dust is indeed a problem - does anyone know how high it levitates? Would the top of a 10 or 20 metre pole be sufficient to keep a PV panel clean? Quite a flimsy structure would suffice with no wind to consider.

THE MYSTERY OF MOON DUST [newyorker]
By Kate Greene November 6, 2013
"The dust not only coats the moon’s surface, but floats up to sixty miles above it"​

Interesting article.
 
  • #33
rootone said:
We have not yet even constructed a permanently inhabited colony under the Seas of Earth...
The one that was constructed above the Seas of Earth, didn't work out all that well either. Remember Biosphere 2 ...?

On the moon, when things don't work out all that well, it's a bit difficult to just open the doors, and walk away.
 

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